As a health service, at this stage, we are remaining open to the public.
The health and safety of our patients and staff remains of upmost importance and we are continuing to follow the Government health recommendations.
While we are trying to minimise the level of disruption to our services and continue to offer what is essential for our patients’ well-being, it is still most important that we uphold a safe environment for all.
We are continuing to monitor developments and adjust our practices and procedures as required.
Here’s an update of what we have been and are doing here to provide a safe environment for all staff and patients:
- Effective as of today, our Group Exercise Classes have been suspended until further notice. We encourage patients to book an appointment with their Physio to develop an individualised home-based exercise program. Alternatively, appointments can be a one-on-one session in the Exercise Area where the physical distancing rules can be adhered to and equipment can be sanitised before and after use. Telehealth options will be available soon (see below).
- We are continuing with screening questions when taking appointment bookings, via appointment reminder text messages and when patients come in.
- Additional hand sanitiser is in place for staff and patients.
- Additional disinfection wipes are in use in consultation rooms & treatment areas, couch covers have been removed and staff are wiping treatment couches after each patient. Any towels or the like are only for individual use.
- Additional disinfection wipes are in the Exercise Area – all users are to wipe down equipment before and after use.
- Shared items such as magazines, toys and reusable cups (we encourage people to bring their own water bottle) have been removed from the waiting rooms.
- The number of chairs in our waiting area have been reduced and the remainder spread out to allow for the required physical distancing
- We are currently working on setting up Telehealth options, video and phone consults, for appointments. Details on this will be communicated soon but obviously it will only be suitable for some appointments.
- Our GLAD program for knee and/or hip osteoarthritis is been suspended until further notice. We will continue to take expressions of interest and those who register will be advised when the program is able to return. The group who have already begun will be able to restart it when program is reinstated.
- All our Sports Trainer Course have been postponed until further notice. Alternate dates will be looked at in the future when this type of activity can be reinstated.
Remember:
- If you are feeling unwell especially with fever or respiratory symptoms like coughing, sore throat or shortness of breath, stay home and rest.
- If you have travelled overseas, you must self-quarantine for 14 days after entering Australia.
- If you have had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, you must self-quarantine for 14 days.
- Please contact the reception team if you need to reschedule your appointment.
Please note: these procedures are in place for all patients and staff members.
The conditions of the current climate for us all is unprecedented and we understand that there is a lot of uncertainty for everyone. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by changes to how we operate but appreciate your understanding in this challenging time.
If you have any further concerns or questions, please call us on 9482 5211.
GENERAL HEALTH INFORMATION FOR YOU:
Take personal action to reduce exposure:
- Adhere to Government recommendations regarding self-isolation after travel.
- Stay healthy with good nutrition, regular exercise, sensible drinking, sleeping well, and if you are a smoker, quitting.
- Do not participate in community gatherings including community sport.
- Take the following hygiene actions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, or using the toilet. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitiser that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.
- Do not share drinking bottles, crockery and cutlery.
- Stop shaking hands, hugging or kissing as a greeting.
- Ensure a distance of 1.5 metres is kept between yourself and others.
- Get vaccinated for flu (influenza) as soon as available. This could help reduce the risk of further problems.
- Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces regularly, for example telephones, keyboards, door handles, light switches and, bench tops.
To stay informed and up to date with the latest information go to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
The DHHS has also established a hotline where any member of the public can call to seek information on COVID-19 on 1800 675 398.
For further health information the number for Victoria's 'Nurse on Call' is: 1300 60 60 24.
Please Note: We are not a general practice and are not equipped to treat or test for suspected cases of coronavirus.
